The Government of Tanzania has stepped up efforts to improve the environment for mining and trading in base metals, with a focus on increasing production, investment, and national revenue through a more organised and efficient sector.
Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, said the Government is committed to ensuring that the base metals subsector becomes a strong pillar in driving industrial development and economic growth.
He said this on April 20, 2026, during a meeting with stakeholders from the Tanzania Base Metal Association (TBMA) held at the Mining Commission offices in Dodoma.
Mavunde said the Government is focusing on strengthening systems that support responsible mining, attracting investment in modern technology, promoting value addition, and ensuring transparency across the entire mining value chain.
He noted that if well managed, the base metals subsector has the capacity to create jobs, increase export earnings, and strengthen Tanzania’s industrial economy.
“Our goal is to ensure this subsector contributes more meaningfully to national development. We are committed to addressing all challenges facing stakeholders in a timely and sustainable manner,” said Mavunde.
During the meeting, the Minister listened to concerns raised by miners and traders, including challenges related to infrastructure, market access, and operational efficiency.
He assured them that the Government is actively working to resolve these issues to improve the business environment.
He also directed the establishment of a dedicated mining service centre in Mlongo-Kyerwa to support tin (cassiterite) miners, aiming to bring services closer to mining communities and improve coordination.
In efforts to strengthen technical capacity in the sector, Mavunde said the Government is constructing a modern mineral testing laboratory in Kizota, Dodoma.
The facility is expected to improve the accuracy and speed of mineral analysis, reduce costs for miners, and support fair valuation of minerals.
On access to finance, the Minister directed the establishment of an Export Credit Guarantee Scheme that will help small-scale miners access affordable loans.
The initiative is expected to increase production and improve competitiveness in international markets.
He further instructed the Mining Commission to create a permanent dialogue platform between Government, small-scale miners, and traders.
The platform will meet regularly to address challenges and propose improvements in policies and operations affecting the sector.
Mavunde also reaffirmed Government commitment to improving infrastructure in mining areas, including roads and energy services, to reduce production costs and enhance efficiency in mineral transport and processing.
He emphasized that regular engagement between Government and stakeholders is key to the growth of the sector, noting that transparency and cooperation remain essential for sustainable development.
“The success of the mining sector depends on strong collaboration between Government and stakeholders. We will continue to engage regularly to ensure the sector grows for the benefit of all Tanzanians,” he said.
TBMA Chairman Godfrey Kente commended the Government for its continued dialogue with stakeholders and efforts to address sector challenges.
He said miners and traders are ready to increase investment and production to support national economic growth and boost Government revenue.
